The Necessity of Effective Leadership in a VUCA Environment: A Conceptual Discussion.

Abstract

The current global operating environment is characterised by volatility, uncertainty,
complexity, and ambiguity (VUCA). If organisations are to survive and prosper in this
VUCA environment, effective leadership is a necessity. This paper is a conceptual
discussion which positions effective leadership as necessary for survival and success
in a VUCA environment. Although it is the responsibility of leaders to ensure that their
organisations are responding effectively to the requirements of the VUCA
environment, scholars have found a deficit of leadership competencies necessary for
people to work in a VUCA world. Leadership models and tools that effectively worked
in the past cannot be effectively inferred to the present and the time has come for new
leadership models that are compatible with the requirements of the VUCA world.
Sustainable success requires leaders who are able to come up with a compelling
vision and then articulate that vision to all stakeholders. Effective leadership in a
volatile, uncertain, complex and ambiguous environment demands men and women
with a strong character. Contemporary leaders should be flexible and quick to change
their plans, work schedules and leadership styles as the situation demands. Leaders
should prioritise the acquisition of new and relevant skills and sustain their physical,
mental and emotional fitness so that they effectively deal with the volatile, uncertain,
complex and ambiguous situations they face.